ALL INCLUSIVE : Private Ephesus & St. John Basilica with LUNCH

If you’re heading to Kusadasi and looking to explore some of Turkey’s most iconic sites without the fuss, this private all-inclusive tour of Ephesus and St. John Basilica really deserves your attention. It promises a personalized experience with the flexibility to spend as much time as you want at each location, along with a delicious Turkish lunch included in the price. Whether you’re a history buff or simply want a smooth, guided day out, this tour has a lot to offer.

What really catches the eye is the private nature of this trip—no big groups or rushed schedules. Plus, the fact that it’s all-inclusive, with skip-the-line tickets and a brand-new A/C vehicle, makes it feel like good value. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that Terrace Houses are an optional stop, so if you’re super keen on seeing those, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee separately. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, tailored visit with a knowledgeable guide, especially those who appreciate comfort and personal attention over crowds.

• Private and flexible: You control your schedule, spend as long as you’d like at each site, and skip waiting in lines.
• All-inclusive: Entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and a professional guide are covered, making it easy to budget.
• Comfortable transportation: A brand new, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant ride.
• Expert guidance: Your licensed guide shares insights, making historical sites come alive.
• Customizable itinerary: You can include the Terrace Houses if you wish, by paying the entrance fee on the day.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, private experience: Perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting more control and fewer crowds.

Exploring Ephesus: The Heart of the Tour

Starting with Ephesus, this ancient city is undoubtedly Turkey’s star attraction. Its well-preserved ruins tell stories of Greek and Roman grandeur, with marble streets, massive public buildings, and legendary structures like the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater. You and your guide will walk through these remarkably intact ruins, soaking in the history that feels surprisingly tangible.

We loved the way your private guide can tailor the pace to your interests—spending more time wandering the ruins or stopping for photos wherever you like. As one reviewer put it, “The guide was lovely, and the tour was wonderful.” The highlight for most is the Library of Celsus, built in the 2nd century AD, which still looks stunning. The Grand Theater, capable of seating 24,000 spectators, offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant social life.

If you’re curious about the more private spaces, the Terrace Houses are a fascinating addition—if you decide to pay the entrance fee, you’ll get a chance to peek into the luxurious homes of ancient Ephesus’s wealthy residents.

The Significance of the Basilica of St. John

After wandering through Ephesus, your next stop is the Basilica of St. John, believed to be the final resting place of the evangelist. Sitting on the southern slopes of Aysolug Hill, the basilica’s ruins evoke a sense of serenity. Your guide will share stories about St. John’s connection to the region and the historical importance of this site.

The visit lasts around 45 minutes, and the site is well worth the short stop. It’s a peaceful spot where you can imagine early Christian history unfolding amidst the remains. One traveler noted, “Our guide made the story of St. John so interesting, it really brought the place to life.”

The Temples and Final Stops

Before heading back, you’ll stop at the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient wonders of the world. Even as a ruin, it’s an impressive sight, and the brief 20-minute stop allows you to appreciate its significance. No entrance fee is required here, and it’s a nice quick snapshot of a monument that once drew travelers from across the world.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Kusadasi, passing by Gazibegendi Park, which offers a fantastic view of the town and cruise terminal. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the cruise port, making it a convenient end to your day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience shines thanks to its private, personalized approach. Your guide is with you from start to finish, sharing detailed insights and ensuring you don’t feel rushed. The vehicle is new and comfortable, and the entire experience is all-inclusive—a big plus for budgeting and peace of mind.

We also appreciate the flexibility; being able to decide how much time to spend at each site is a rare perk with guided tours. Plus, the skip-the-line tickets mean you’ll avoid long waits, especially at popular spots like Ephesus.

The reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, which really elevates the experience. One reviewer said, “The guide was wonderful, and the tour was lovely.” That personal touch makes a difference, especially when navigating such significant historical sites.

The Practicalities: Price, Transport, and Duration

At $89.44 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering everything included. When you factor in skip-the-line tickets, a private guide, lunch, and comfortable transport, it’s a cost-effective way to see key sites without the stress of independent planning.

The tour lasts around 5 to 6 hours, which feels just right—long enough to see everything without feeling rushed. The pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or port add to the convenience, especially if you’re on a cruise or tight schedule.

The size is intimate—max 10 people—which keeps the experience personal and manageable. Smaller groups tend to mean more interaction with your guide and less waiting around.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience overall is positive, one review mentions a somewhat awkward encounter with a carpet salesman after the tour, which is a reminder to stay firm about your interests. Plus, the Terrace Houses are optional and require an extra fee if you want to see them, so if that’s a must-see for you, plan accordingly.

Who Would This Tour Suit Best?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those who prefer avoiding large crowds and want to customize their sightseeing day. Families, small groups of friends, or couples who appreciate a relaxed pace will find it particularly suitable.

However, if you’re on a very tight budget or prefer doing everything independently, this might be less appealing. Also, those especially interested in detailed archaeological sites should consider if the Terrace Houses are worth the extra fee for them.

FAQs

Is this tour private or shared?
It’s a private tour for your family and friends only, so you won’t have to share the experience with strangers.

What’s included in the price?
You get skip-the-line entrance fees, a licensed guide, a traditional Turkish lunch, transport in a new A/C vehicle, and local taxes and fees.

Can I decide the departure time?
Yes, you pick your departure time when booking, offering extra flexibility.

Is there a longer or shorter option available?
This particular tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, designed to cover the main highlights comfortably.

Are terraces houses included?
No, they are optional and require an extra fee if you want to visit.

What if I want to see more sites?
You can customize the itinerary slightly by your guide’s advice or request, within the tour duration.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children comfortable with walking and history will enjoy the sites.

What about tips and extras?
Tips are not included, so if you feel your guide did a good job, a small gratuity is appreciated. Personal expenses are also separate.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private Ephesus and St. John Basilica tour offers a blend of comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance—making it a smart choice for those wanting a stress-free day of exploring Turkey’s ancient treasures. With its logical itinerary, personalized touch, and all-in-one setup, it’s especially suited for travelers who want to make the most of their precious time without the hassle.